Top Retail Insurance Brokers in the USA
Leaders in Client-Focused Risk Management Solutions
Retail insurance brokers play a vital role in the insurance ecosystem by serving as intermediaries between clients—both individuals and businesses—and insurers. These professionals help assess risks, identify coverage needs, and secure the best policies at competitive rates. The U.S. retail insurance market is vast and competitive, with certain firms distinguishing themselves through innovation, client satisfaction, and market expertise. Here’s a look at the top retail insurance brokers in the USA.
1. Marsh McLennan
Headquarters: New York, NY
Employees: 85,000+ (including Marsh subsidiaries)
Revenue: Over $23 billion (2024)
As a part of Marsh McLennan, Marsh is the world’s largest insurance broker and risk advisor. Their comprehensive services include commercial property, casualty, cyber, employee benefits, and specialty lines. Marsh’s use of analytics, data, and technology gives them a sharp competitive edge in offering tailored solutions to clients of all sizes.
2. Aon
Headquarters: Chicago, IL
Employees: 50,000+
Revenue: $12+ billion (2024)
Aon is known for its deep expertise in risk management, reinsurance, and human capital solutions. It has a strong retail brokerage arm that services businesses across multiple industries including healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and more. Their global reach and personalized client service make Aon a preferred broker for multinational corporations.
3. Willis Towers Watson (WTW)
Headquarters: Arlington, VA
Employees: 45,000+
Revenue: Approx. $9 billion (2024)
WTW provides a combination of risk consulting and insurance brokering that makes it stand out in the retail insurance space. Known for their client-first approach and data-driven insights, WTW offers a wide array of commercial and personal insurance products, including specialized programs for industries like aviation, construction, and energy.
4. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.
Headquarters: Rolling Meadows, IL
Employees: 45,000+
Revenue: $10 billion+ (2024)
Arthur J. Gallagher (Gallagher) is renowned for its decentralized and relationship-based approach. They focus on mid-market commercial clients and public sector organizations. With a strong emphasis on ethical standards and a client-first mindset, Gallagher has consistently ranked among the best workplaces and most trusted names in insurance brokering.
5. Brown & Brown Insurance
Headquarters: Daytona Beach, FL
Employees: 15,000+
Revenue: $5.4 billion+ (2024)
Brown & Brown has carved out a reputation as one of the fastest-growing retail insurance brokers in the U.S. They serve a broad base of clients from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies. Their decentralized structure enables local teams to make decisions that are closely aligned with client needs, creating a flexible and responsive service model.
6. Lockton Companies
Headquarters: Kansas City, MO
Employees: 10,000+
Revenue: $3+ billion (2024)
Lockton is the largest privately held insurance brokerage in the world. Their independence allows them to focus entirely on the client without shareholder pressure. Lockton’s strength lies in its specialized industry knowledge, especially in areas like construction, healthcare, and employee benefits.
7. HUB International
Headquarters: Chicago, IL
Employees: 17,000+
Revenue: $4 billion+ (2024)
HUB International has made strategic acquisitions across the U.S. to broaden its capabilities. Its retail operations are diversified across personal, commercial, and specialty insurance lines. HUB also provides a strong digital client interface and industry-specific expertise.
8. Alliant Insurance Services
Headquarters: Irvine, CA
Employees: 10,000+
Revenue: $3+ billion (2024)
Alliant is a major player in the retail brokerage market with deep penetration in sectors like public entities, construction, and healthcare. Known for its entrepreneurial culture and expert-led teams, Alliant consistently delivers value through industry-specialized programs.
9. USI Insurance Services
Headquarters: Valhalla, NY
Employees: 10,000+
Revenue: $2.8 billion+ (2024)
USI leverages a proprietary platform called the USI ONE Advantage®, combining analytics, networked resources, and strategic planning to deliver better outcomes. Their focus on middle-market companies, personalized service, and strategic risk analysis makes them a go-to broker.
10. AssuredPartners
Headquarters: Orlando, FL
Employees: 9,000+
Revenue: $2 billion+ (2024)
AssuredPartners is a fast-growing retail insurance broker known for acquiring high-performing local agencies. This growth strategy allows them to maintain personalized service while offering national-level resources and capabilities.
What Sets Top Retail Brokers Apart?
1. Client-Centric Approach
Top brokers go beyond selling policies—they focus on understanding each client’s unique risks and objectives.
2. Technology Integration
Firms like Marsh and Aon leverage advanced analytics, AI, and platforms that streamline policy management, risk assessment, and claims support.
3. Industry Specialization
Brokers with deep knowledge in specific sectors (e.g., Lockton in construction, WTW in aviation) provide tailored coverage that competitors may not offer.
4. Strong Carrier Relationships
Top brokers maintain access to a wide range of insurers, allowing them to negotiate better pricing and custom coverage.
5. Sustainable Growth
Strategic mergers, tech investments, and a focus on employee satisfaction help leading brokers stay ahead of the curve.
Conclusion
Retail insurance brokers in the U.S. are evolving to meet increasingly complex risks, digital demands, and regulatory landscapes. Firms like Marsh, Aon, Gallagher, and WTW lead the pack with their scale, innovation, and client service. Meanwhile, agile and privately held companies like Lockton and HUB are reshaping the market through personalization and niche expertise. Choosing the right broker can make a substantial difference in navigating today’s risk environment.
❓FAQs
1. What is a retail insurance broker?
A retail insurance broker works directly with clients to help them find and secure insurance policies from various carriers based on their specific needs.
2. How do retail brokers make money?
They earn commissions from insurance carriers for policies sold or charge service fees to clients.
3. Are retail brokers the same as agents?
No. Brokers typically represent the client’s interests, while agents may represent a specific insurance carrier.
4. Which retail broker is best for small businesses?
Firms like Gallagher, Brown & Brown, and HUB International are highly rated for serving small and mid-sized businesses.
5. Can individuals use retail brokers?
Yes. Many retail brokers offer personal lines of insurance such as homeowners, auto, and life coverage.
